Ștefan Constantin Bănică (Romanian pronunciation: [ʃteˈfaŋ konstanˈtim bəˈnikə]) was a Romanian actor and singer. Aside from starring in multiple films, he was also known for his interpretation of songs such as "Îmi acordați un dans", "Cum am ajuns să te iubesc", "Gioconda se mărită", "Hei, coșar, coșar", and "Astă seară mă fac praf". His son, Ștefan Bănică Jr., is also well known in the entertainment industry.
He was born in Călărași, on 11 November 1933, in a house situated on Călărași Street (nowadays Pompierilor Street); his father was Drăgan Constandache Bănică, a lăutar.[1][2] Bănică attended the Cantemir High School in Bucharest.[3]
He died in Bucharest, on 26 May 1995, at age 61. On World Theater Day 2016, Bănică posthumously received a star on the Walk of Fame in Bucharest, as a sign of recognition and appreciation for his entire activity in the field of theater and film.[4]